Getting a Job as a Lifeguard

Getting a job as a lifeguard is like finding many other jobs and breaks down broadly into three steps:

Where to apply

Start with places you are familiar with. If you go to a certain pool or beach regularly, that is a great place to start. Not only will you be familiar with the area already, but the staff may already be familiar with you.

You can also find some job listings online. Craig’s List is one resource that is very easy to use. Please feel free to use the search box below as well.

There are also some other places you may not think of at first that need lifeguards on duty:

  • Hotels with pools
  • Water parks
  • Summer Camps
  • Aqua therapy facilities
  • Public and Private Pools
  • Lakeside resorts and campgrounds
  • The Red Cross
  • US Lifesaving Association (usla.org)

How to Apply

Generally the best way to apply is in person. Unless you are specifically instructed to apply by mail or online I’d would strongly suggest going in person. Doing so shows that you are seriously interested in the position.

Do you need a resume? Probably not, but it is also probably a good idea to make one anyway. Writing a resume forces you to put into words what it is you are trying to achieve and what you have accomplished. Don’t let a lack of experience hold you back. Emphasize skills and training you have, sports you participate in, clubs you belong to. Also include references your potential employer can call who will speak well of you – teachers, coaches, club organizers.

In the end you may not need the resume but you will be prepared to answer questions on a job application or in an interview.

Interview Skills

Again, these skills are pretty much the same for any job you’ll apply for in your life.

  • Research the company you are interviewing with – know their history, the names of key staff members (like your interviewer), hours and such. Whatever will demonstrate that you are interested in them.
  • Dress Appropriately – No suit and tie for this interview. Clean, comfortable and tasteful clothing is the thing. Maybe even a swimsuit. It depends on the organization.
  • Practice Interviewing – write questions on some cards and practice answering them out loud. Have a friend ask you those questions and any others you may not have thought of. There are thousands of websites that have lists of such questions
  • Impress the interviewer – emphasize your skills, relevant experience and enthusiasm. What it all comes down to having a professional attitude and confidence.

That last thing can be tough when you are interviewing for a job you really want. There’s no magic potion that will give you confidence if you are nervous. The closest I’ve found is to pretend you are confident and ‘assume the sale’. That is, speak as though the interviewer will be hiring you and that this is just a formality. Don’t say, ‘If you hire me, I will …’ Say ‘When I work here, I will…’

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